Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A distance detecting device comprising: a light source configured to output light based on a plurality of transmission signals having different frequencies; a scanner configured to sequentially perform first direction scanning and second direction scanning to output the output light to an external area; a detection unit including a photodiode to convert light received from an outside into reception signals, the received light corresponding to the output light; and a processor configured to calculate a distance to an external target based on the transmission signals and the reception signals, the processor varying frequencies of the transmission signals, wherein the processor calculates a first distance to the external target based on a first transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, and a first reception signal corresponding to the first transmission signal, calculates a second distance to the external target based on a second transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, and a second reception signal corresponding to the second transmission signal, and calculates a final distance to the external target based on the calculated first and second distances, wherein the processor divides a scanning section of the external area into a blank area that does not include the external target and an active area that includes the external target, and wherein, when levels of the detected reception signals are equal to or greater than a predetermined level in a state in which the output light is not output to the outside in a portion of the scanning section corresponding to the blank area, in which the external target is not present, the processor determines that another distance detecting device uses frequencies similar to the frequencies of the transmission signals and varies the frequencies of the transmission signals.
A distance detecting device operates in the field of optical sensing, specifically for measuring distances to external targets using light-based signals. The device addresses challenges in accurate distance measurement, particularly in environments where interference from other similar devices may occur. The system includes a light source that emits light modulated with multiple transmission signals at different frequencies. A scanner directs this light outward in a scanning pattern, performing sequential scans in two directions. A detection unit with a photodiode receives reflected light from the target and converts it into reception signals. A processor calculates the distance to the target by analyzing the phase or time delay between the transmitted and received signals. To improve accuracy, the processor uses multiple transmission frequencies, computing an initial distance from a first signal pair and a second distance from a second signal pair, then deriving a final distance from these values. The device also monitors for interference by dividing the scanning area into a blank area (where no target is expected) and an active area (where the target is present). If reception signals in the blank area exceed a threshold level when no light is being transmitted, the processor detects potential interference from another device using similar frequencies and adjusts the transmission frequencies to mitigate the issue. This adaptive approach ensures reliable distance measurements even in crowded or noisy environments.
2. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein a frequency ratio between the first and second transmission signals, selected from among the transmission signals, is not an integer multiple.
A distance detecting device measures distances using multiple transmission signals with different frequencies. The device transmits at least two signals, where the frequency ratio between any two selected signals is not an integer multiple. This design prevents interference and ensures accurate distance measurements by avoiding harmonic overlaps. The device may use signals with frequencies that are non-integer multiples of each other, such as one signal at 100 kHz and another at 150 kHz, to minimize signal distortion. The system processes the reflected signals to determine distance based on time-of-flight or phase differences. This approach improves measurement reliability in environments with reflective surfaces or multipath interference. The device may include a transmitter, receiver, and processing unit to analyze the signals and compute distance. The non-integer frequency ratio ensures that the signals do not reinforce or cancel each other, maintaining signal integrity. This method is useful in applications like automotive radar, industrial sensing, and robotics, where precise distance detection is critical. The device may also incorporate signal modulation techniques to further enhance accuracy. The overall system provides robust distance measurements by leveraging frequency diversity and avoiding harmonic interference.
3. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein a frequency ratio between the first and second transmission signals, selected from among the transmission signals, is n +0.5.
A distance detecting device measures the distance to a target object by transmitting and receiving electromagnetic waves. The device addresses the challenge of accurately determining distance in environments where reflections or interference may distort measurements. The system generates multiple transmission signals with different frequencies and analyzes the phase differences between transmitted and received signals to calculate distance. To improve accuracy, the device selects two transmission signals from the available signals, where the frequency ratio between the first and second selected signals is n + 0.5, where n is an integer. This specific frequency ratio enhances the resolution and reduces ambiguity in distance measurements by optimizing the phase detection process. The device may also include a signal processing unit to filter noise and a display unit to present the calculated distance. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring high precision, such as industrial automation, robotics, and autonomous navigation.
4. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein a first output light based on the first transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, and a second output light based on the second transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, are simultaneously output, the first output light and the second output light having the same wavelength.
This invention relates to a distance detecting device that measures distances using light signals. The device addresses the challenge of accurately determining distances in environments where multiple light signals may interfere with each other, particularly when signals of the same wavelength are used. The device includes a light source that generates multiple transmission signals, each with a distinct modulation pattern. A selection mechanism chooses a first transmission signal and a second transmission signal from these multiple signals. The device then outputs a first output light and a second output light, both derived from the selected signals and having the same wavelength. These output lights are emitted simultaneously to measure distances without interference, as their distinct modulation patterns allow for differentiation despite sharing the same wavelength. The device may also include a receiver to detect reflected light and a processor to analyze the signals, ensuring precise distance measurements even in complex environments. This approach improves accuracy and reliability in applications such as autonomous navigation, robotics, and industrial sensing.
5. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein a first output light based on the first transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, and a second output light based on the second transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, are simultaneously output, the first output light and the second output light having different wavelengths.
This invention relates to distance detection devices, specifically those using light-based signals to measure distances. The device addresses the challenge of accurately determining distances in environments where multiple light signals may interfere with each other. The core technology involves transmitting multiple light signals with different wavelengths to improve measurement accuracy and reliability. The device includes a light source that generates multiple transmission signals, each with distinct wavelengths. These signals are used to measure distances by emitting light toward a target and analyzing the reflected light. The device selects a first transmission signal and a second transmission signal from the available signals, each with different wavelengths. The first output light, derived from the first transmission signal, and the second output light, derived from the second transmission signal, are emitted simultaneously. By using different wavelengths, the device reduces interference and improves the accuracy of distance measurements. The reflected light from the target is detected and processed to determine the distance based on the time-of-flight or phase shift of the signals. This approach enhances performance in environments with multiple reflective surfaces or varying light conditions. The device may also include additional components, such as a controller to manage signal selection and processing, ensuring precise and reliable distance measurements.
6. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein a first output light based on the first transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, and a second output light based on the second transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, are alternately output per line or per frame during scanning performed by the scanner.
This invention relates to distance detection devices, specifically those used in scanning systems to measure distances to objects. The problem addressed is the need for accurate and efficient distance measurement during scanning operations, particularly when multiple transmission signals are involved. The device generates and outputs a first output light based on a first transmission signal and a second output light based on a second transmission signal. These output lights are alternately emitted per line or per frame during scanning. The first and second transmission signals are selected from among multiple transmission signals generated by the device. The alternating output of these lights ensures precise distance measurements by reducing interference and improving signal clarity. The scanning system processes the reflected light from the output beams to determine the distance to the scanned object. This approach enhances measurement accuracy and reliability in applications such as 3D imaging, robotics, and automated inspection systems. The device may include additional components like a light source, a scanner, and a detector to facilitate the transmission and reception of the signals. The alternating emission of the output lights per line or frame optimizes the scanning process, ensuring consistent and high-quality distance data.
7. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor calculates the final distance to the external target based on a greatest common measure frequency of a first frequency of the first transmission signal and a second frequency of the second transmission signal.
This invention relates to distance detection systems, specifically improving accuracy in measuring the distance to an external target using multiple transmission signals. The problem addressed is the inherent noise and interference in distance measurements, which can lead to inaccuracies when relying on a single transmission signal. The solution involves using two or more transmission signals with different frequencies to enhance measurement reliability. The device includes a transmitter that emits at least two transmission signals toward the target, each with distinct frequencies. A receiver captures the reflected signals, and a processor analyzes the received signals to determine the distance. The key innovation is that the processor calculates the final distance based on the greatest common measure (GCM) frequency derived from the first and second transmission signals. This approach leverages the mathematical relationship between the frequencies to improve measurement precision by reducing errors caused by environmental factors or signal distortions. The system may also include additional features such as signal modulation, noise filtering, and adaptive frequency selection to further refine the distance calculation. By combining multiple frequency signals and applying the GCM frequency method, the device achieves more accurate and stable distance measurements compared to single-frequency systems. This technique is particularly useful in applications requiring high precision, such as industrial automation, autonomous navigation, and environmental sensing.
8. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein the light source outputs light based on the first transmission signal and the second transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, for a first time, and outputs light based on a third transmission signal and a fourth transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, for a second time.
A distance detecting device measures distances using light signals. The device includes a light source that emits light based on transmission signals to determine distance. The light source outputs light in two distinct phases. In the first phase, the light source emits light based on a first and second transmission signal, selected from a set of transmission signals. In the second phase, the light source emits light based on a third and fourth transmission signal, also selected from the same set. The selection of signals in each phase allows for precise distance measurements by varying the light emission patterns. The device may use these signals to calculate distance by analyzing the time-of-flight or phase shift of the reflected light. The transmission signals may be modulated or encoded to improve measurement accuracy and reduce interference. The device may further include a receiver to detect reflected light and a processor to analyze the signals for distance calculation. This method enhances measurement reliability by using multiple signal combinations in sequential phases.
9. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein, when a frequency variable input is made based on a user input, the processor varies the frequencies of the transmission signals.
A distance detecting device operates in the field of proximity sensing or ranging, where accurate measurement of distances to objects is critical for applications such as robotics, automotive systems, or industrial automation. The device addresses challenges in dynamic environments where objects may move or environmental conditions change, requiring adaptable sensing capabilities. The device includes a processor that generates transmission signals, such as ultrasonic or electromagnetic waves, to determine the distance to a target object. The processor analyzes the reflected signals to calculate the distance based on time-of-flight or phase-shift measurements. A key feature is the ability to adjust the frequencies of the transmission signals in response to a user input. This frequency variability allows the device to optimize performance for different materials, distances, or interference conditions. For example, lower frequencies may penetrate obstacles better, while higher frequencies provide finer resolution. The user can manually select or adjust the frequency settings to suit specific applications, improving measurement accuracy and reliability in varying scenarios. This adaptability enhances the device's versatility in diverse operational environments.
10. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a modulation unit configured to modulate at least one code signal and to drive the light source to output light based on at least one code signal; and a demodulation unit including a frequency conversion unit to convert a carrier-based electric signal detected by the detection unit into a baseband-based signal and configured to separate the code signal based on light received from the outside, the received light corresponding to the output light, wherein the processor detects the distance to the external target based on the code signal for the modulation unit and the code signal for the demodulation unit.
A distance detecting device measures the distance to an external target using modulated light signals. The device includes a light source that emits light based on at least one code signal, which is generated by a modulation unit. The emitted light reflects off the target and is detected by a detection unit, which converts the received light into a carrier-based electric signal. A demodulation unit processes this signal, converting it into a baseband-based signal and separating the code signal from the received light. The device further includes a processor that calculates the distance to the target by comparing the code signal used for modulation with the code signal extracted from the received light. This approach enables precise distance measurement by analyzing the time delay or phase shift between the transmitted and received signals. The system may use multiple code signals to enhance accuracy or reduce interference. The modulation and demodulation units ensure that the light signals are properly encoded and decoded, allowing the processor to derive distance information efficiently. This technology is applicable in applications requiring accurate distance sensing, such as autonomous navigation, robotics, or industrial automation.
11. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a polarized beam splitting unit disposed between the light source and the scanner and between the detection unit and the scanner in a light traveling path of the output light to transmit a polarized beam of the output light and the received light and to reflect another polarized beam of the output light and the received light; and an absorption member configured to absorb a backscattered light generated in the polarized beam splitting unit.
A distance detecting device measures distances using light, typically involving a light source, a scanner, and a detection unit. The device emits light toward a target, scans the light, and detects reflected light to determine distance. A key challenge is managing unwanted backscattered light, which can interfere with accurate measurements. The device includes a polarized beam splitting unit positioned between the light source and the scanner, and between the detection unit and the scanner. This unit transmits one polarization state of the emitted and received light while reflecting another polarization state. The polarized beam splitting unit helps separate the emitted and received light paths, improving measurement accuracy. Additionally, an absorption member is included to absorb backscattered light generated within the polarized beam splitting unit, reducing noise and interference. This ensures that only the desired reflected light from the target is detected, enhancing the precision of distance measurements. The combination of polarized beam splitting and backscattered light absorption improves the reliability of the distance detection system.
12. The distance detecting device according to claim 11 , wherein the absorption member comprises at least one selected from among: a black painting attached to the polarized beam splitting unit; a polarizing member disposed between the polarized beam splitting unit and the light source; a photosensitive filter disposed between the polarized beam splitting unit and a structure; a black coating formed at a surface of the structure; and a multiple-reflection channel member attached to the structure.
This invention relates to distance detecting devices, specifically those using polarized light to measure distances. The problem addressed is unwanted light reflections within the device, which can interfere with accurate distance measurements. The invention improves upon a distance detecting device that emits polarized light toward a target structure, receives reflected light, and analyzes the polarization state to determine distance. The key improvement involves an absorption member that reduces stray light reflections within the device. The absorption member can take several forms: a black paint coating on the polarized beam splitting unit, a polarizing filter placed between the beam splitter and the light source, a photosensitive filter between the beam splitter and the target structure, a black coating on the structure's surface, or a multiple-reflection channel member attached to the structure. These components absorb or block unwanted light paths, ensuring that only the intended reflected light reaches the detector, thereby improving measurement accuracy. The invention is particularly useful in optical distance measurement systems where stray light can degrade performance.
13. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor detects the distance to the external target based on a time difference between the code signal for the modulation unit and the code signal for the demodulation unit.
A distance detecting device measures the distance to an external target by analyzing a time difference between a transmitted code signal and a received code signal. The device includes a modulation unit that generates a modulated signal for transmission, a demodulation unit that processes the reflected signal from the target, and a processor that calculates the distance based on the time delay between the transmitted and received signals. The processor compares the code signal used for modulation with the code signal obtained from demodulation to determine the time difference, which is then converted into a distance measurement. This approach improves accuracy by leveraging precise timing analysis of the code signals, reducing errors caused by environmental noise or signal distortion. The device is particularly useful in applications requiring high-precision distance measurements, such as autonomous navigation, industrial automation, and robotics, where reliable and accurate distance detection is critical. The system may also include additional signal processing techniques to enhance signal clarity and reduce interference, ensuring robust performance in various operating conditions.
14. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor selects a code signal corresponding to the code signal used in the modulation unit from among at least one code signal separated by the demodulation unit using a correlation value between the code signal used in the modulation unit and the at least one code signal separated by the demodulation unit, and detects the distance to the external target based on a time difference between the selected code signal and the code signal used in the modulation unit.
This invention relates to a distance detecting device that measures the distance to an external target using modulated code signals. The device addresses the challenge of accurately detecting distance in environments with noise or interference by employing a correlation-based selection method to improve signal reliability. The device includes a modulation unit that generates a code signal for transmission, a demodulation unit that separates at least one code signal from received signals, and a processor that analyzes these signals. The processor calculates correlation values between the transmitted code signal and the separated code signals to identify the most reliable signal. It then selects the code signal with the highest correlation value and calculates the distance to the target based on the time difference between the selected signal and the original transmitted signal. This method enhances accuracy by mitigating the effects of noise and multipath interference, ensuring robust distance measurements even in challenging conditions. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise distance detection, such as automotive radar, industrial sensing, and environmental monitoring.
15. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein the light source outputs light having a single wavelength, the modulation unit adds a plurality of code signals to the output light having the single wavelength, or adds a first code signal, selected from among the code signals, to the output light having the single wavelength, and the output light having the first code signal, selected from among the code signals, added thereto is output for a first period, and an output light having a second code signal, selected from among the code signals, added thereto is output for a second period.
A distance detecting device operates in the field of optical measurement, specifically for determining distances using modulated light signals. The device addresses challenges in accurately measuring distances in environments with interference or multipath reflections by employing coded modulation techniques to enhance signal discrimination. The device includes a light source that emits light at a single wavelength. A modulation unit processes this light by adding multiple code signals to it. The modulation unit can apply a first code signal to the light for a first time period and then switch to a second code signal for a second time period. These code signals are selected from a set of available codes, allowing the device to distinguish between different light paths or reflections based on the applied modulation patterns. The coded light is then transmitted toward a target, and the reflected light is analyzed to determine the distance based on the time-of-flight and the applied modulation codes. This approach improves measurement accuracy and reliability by reducing ambiguity in signal interpretation, particularly in complex environments. The device may also include additional components, such as a light receiver and a signal processor, to complete the distance measurement process.
16. The distance detecting device according to claim 1 , wherein the light source comprises a first light source configured to output a first light having a first wavelength and a second light source configured to output a second light having a second wavelength, and a first code signal, selected from among a plurality of code signals, is added to the first output light, and a second code signal, selected from among the code signals, is added to the second output light.
This invention relates to a distance detecting device that uses light sources to measure distances. The device addresses the challenge of accurately detecting distances in environments where multiple light sources may interfere with measurements. The device includes a light source system with at least two distinct light sources. The first light source emits light at a first wavelength, and the second light source emits light at a second wavelength. Each light source is configured to output light with a unique code signal. The code signals are selected from a predefined set of code signals, allowing the device to distinguish between the different light sources. This coding helps prevent interference and improves the accuracy of distance measurements. The device may also include a light receiver to detect the reflected or returned light and a processing unit to analyze the received signals based on the encoded information. By using multiple wavelengths and unique code signals, the device can reliably measure distances even in complex environments with multiple light sources. This approach enhances the robustness and precision of distance detection systems.
17. The distance detecting device according to claim 15 , wherein the processor detects a plurality of pieces of distance information to the external target based on the code signals for the modulation unit and the code signals for the demodulation unit, and calculates final distance information based on the pieces of distance information.
This invention relates to distance detection technology, specifically improving accuracy in measuring distances to external targets using modulated signals. The problem addressed is the inherent noise and interference in distance measurements, which can lead to inaccurate results. The solution involves a distance detecting device that uses both modulation and demodulation code signals to enhance precision. The device includes a modulation unit that generates code signals for transmission, and a demodulation unit that processes reflected signals from an external target. A processor analyzes these signals to detect multiple pieces of distance information. By combining these individual measurements, the processor calculates a final, more accurate distance value. This approach reduces errors caused by environmental factors or signal distortions, ensuring reliable distance detection. The system may also include a transmission unit for sending the modulated signals and a reception unit for capturing the reflected signals. The processor further adjusts the modulation and demodulation codes dynamically to optimize signal quality and measurement accuracy. This method improves upon traditional distance detection by leveraging multiple signal analyses to derive a refined result, making it suitable for applications requiring high precision, such as autonomous navigation or industrial sensing.
18. An image processing apparatus comprising: a display unit; a distance detecting unit comprising a light source configured to output light based on a plurality of transmission signals having different frequencies, a scanner configured to sequentially perform first direction scanning and second direction scanning to output the output light to an external area, a detection unit configured to convert light received from an outside into reception signals, the received light corresponding to the output light, and a processor configured to calculate a distance to an external target based on the transmission signals and the reception signals, the processor varying frequencies of the transmission signals; and a controller configured to control a three-dimensional (3D) image to be displayed on the display unit using distance information detected by the distance detecting unit; and a memory to store a program for processing or controlling the controller, wherein the processor calculates a first distance to the external target based on a first transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, and a first reception signal corresponding to the first transmission signal, calculates a second distance to the external target based on a second transmission signal, selected from among the transmission signals, and a second reception signal corresponding to the second transmission signal, and calculates a final distance to the external target based on the calculated first and second distances, wherein the processor divides a scanning section of the external area into a blank area that does not include the external target and an active area that includes the external target, and wherein, when levels of the detected reception signals are equal to or greater than a predetermined level in a state in which the output light is not output to the outside in a portion of the scanning section corresponding to the blank area, in which the external target is not present, the processor determines that another distance detecting device uses frequencies similar to the frequencies of the transmission signals and varies the frequencies of the transmission signals.
This invention relates to an image processing apparatus with a distance detection system for generating 3D images. The apparatus includes a display unit, a distance detecting unit, a controller, and a memory. The distance detecting unit uses a light source to output light based on multiple transmission signals with varying frequencies. A scanner performs sequential scanning in two directions to project the light outward. A detection unit converts received light into reception signals, and a processor calculates the distance to an external target by comparing the transmission and reception signals. The processor adjusts the frequencies of the transmission signals to improve accuracy. The system divides the scanning area into a blank area (without the target) and an active area (with the target). If reception signals in the blank area exceed a predetermined level when no light is being output, the processor detects interference from another distance detection device using similar frequencies and adjusts the transmission frequencies accordingly. The controller uses the distance information to display a 3D image on the display unit. The memory stores programs for controlling the apparatus. This invention addresses interference issues in distance detection systems by dynamically adjusting signal frequencies to ensure accurate 3D imaging.
Unknown
January 16, 2018
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